The graph between and (radial distance) is shown below. This represents

- A.1s-orbital
- B.2p-orbital
- C.3s-orbital
- D.2s-orbital
Show answer and solution
Correct option: D
Solution
The 2s orbital has a radial wavefunction with one radial node (where ψ = 0, so |ψ|² = 0) at a finite value of r, then rises again before falling to zero at large r. This gives a graph with two maxima and one point where |ψ|² touches zero between them — exactly what is shown. The 1s orbital has no radial nodes (single peak), 2p has no radial nodes but starts at zero because of the angular part, and 3s has two radial nodes. The one-node, two-maxima shape uniquely identifies the 2s orbital.
[JEE Main 2019 · 10 April · Shift I]